Description Family Cornaceae. Originating from China and Japan. A graceful, elegant, large deciduous shrub with cascading branches. Massive white spring floral display, spectacular autumn colour and edible red berries. Hardy and easy to grow in woodland, full sun or in pots. The Chinese Flowering Dogwood in Your Garden Large, pure white bracts open in early summer like star-shaped flowers, each one held upright on the branches. They form a dense layer over the foliage, obscuring the leaves and replicating the plant’s branching form. The result is breathtaking; the whole plant becomes a foaming mass of cascading blooms, with a unique poise and beauty. Cornus kousa var. chinensis is hardy in all UK gardens, growing steadily to 6m tall and wide over 10–20 years. A striking standalone specimen for small to medium-sized gardens in Norfolk, its form and flowers steal the show. Alternatively, in Suffolk’s larger woodland gardens, plant it in groups to be enveloped in an other-worldly floral escape. After its spectacular early spring show, this distinctive species takes a breather, with its handsome, strikingly veined leaves taking over. In late summer, its fruits begin to ripen; by autumn, their bright red strawberry-like appearance joins the late show. Augmented by the fruits, the leaves begin to darken, taking on purple tints before erupting in reds and yellows. Growing Tips for Your Cornus kousa var. chinensis Soil and Sun: plant in any light soil, except those that are heavy and wet in winter, in full sun or part shade. Planting: at any time of year. Do not add soil improvers. Watering: Moderate; tolerates dry spells once established. Water regularly in its first summer while rooting out. Few plants can match the flowering display of this magnificent, large shrub, as well as its autumn colour and fruiting display. Add to those qualities the exceptional poise of its tiered branching habit, and the Chinese flowering dogwood is a must-have.
